Neon signs are a great way to make your business stand out! However, they’re far from perfect. They need repairs and regular maintenance to preserve the glow. Today, we are going to discuss the most common problems with neon signs and how they can be remedied with repairs and regular maintenance.
Are you considering a neon sign for your business? Follow the tips in our comprehensive guide to keep your signs functioning and shining bright for years to come.
How to Keep Your Neon Sign Shining Bright with Regular Maintenance
Don’t let your neon signs burn out! In order to maintain the glow of your neon sign, you need to take care of it. By following our basic maintenance tips, you can keep your light shining bright for years to come:
Clean Your Neon Sign
Over time, dust, dirt and debris can accumulate on the surface of your neon sign, dimming its brightness. Regular cleaning will help your sign remain visible and maintain its beauty. Gently wipe the surface with a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth. Stay away from harsh chemicals to avoid damaging your sign. When cleaning glass tubes, have a damp cloth and cleaner specially made for neon signs on hand to prevent build-up or residue.
Inspect Your Sign For Damage
Check your sign for damage like cracks and leaks on occasion. You should also check if there is any damage to the neon sign tubes. If the tube has cracks or leaks, the sign might not be able to glow anymore and can result in visible cracks, bubbling and discolouration. If you notice any problems, schedule repairs sooner rather than later to prevent further deterioration.
Handling Neon Gas
The neon tube connected to your sign provides its signature glow. As time passes, this gas can start to leak, affecting the sign’s brightness. If you notice your sign is dimming or starting to flicker, the gas might need to be refilled. Neon gas repairs should only be handled by professionals with the right training and knowledge. If this is the problem, a technician can replace or refill the tube for you.
Check Electrical Connections
Neon signs use electrical connections to their power lights. That’s why you should check the wiring, transformers and power supply on a regular basis. Loose or worn-out electrical connections can result in dimming, flickering or a complete burnout. Be on the lookout for wear on exposed wires and ensure all connections are secure. If there are issues with the electrical system, call in a professional.
These maintenance practices will help your neon sign last longer. By paying attention to the smallest of details, you can fix basic problems before they worsen. Speaking of issues, we will talk about common problems with neon signs and how to resolve them next.
Common Neon Sign Issues and How to Fix Them
Even those with an established maintenance can encounter problems. When they happen, you’ll need professional repair services to fix them. Check out the most common problems with neon signs and how to fix them below:
Broken Tubes
Neon signs get their signature glow from a tube. When it is cracked or broken, the gas inside the tube can leak out, making the light flicker or burn out entirely.
In order to repair the tube, the damaged section needs to be removed for a new tube to be installed. The replacement tube is then sealed into place and gas is installed inside. Note that this process requires specialized knowledge and should be handled by a professional.
Damaged Electrical Connections
Did your neon sign lose its glow? If it did, damaged electrical connections might be the culprit. Loose wires, corroded connections and damaged transformers can stop the sign from lighting up properly.
The repair process involves checking the wires and replacing any damaged sections. All the connections should be secure and wires should never be exposed, especially outdoors.
Transformer Replacement
The transformer is the backbone of any neon sign. It turns standard household voltage into neon gas to get the sign to glow. When the transformer is malfunctioning, your neon sign can start flickering or not light up at all.
Replacing the transformer isn’t easy. A professional technician is required. The technician will replace the faulty transformer to get the sign up and running again in no time.
Flickering or Dimming
If you notice that your neon sign is flickering or dimming, it could be a result of worn-out tubes, electrical problems or issues with the transformer.
It is essential to inspect and replace the leaking or damaged tubes. If you continue to experience issues, your technician will check the electrical components and make any necessary repairs.
When you encounter a problem, it’s best to fix it immediately. It can save you money over time. By replacing faulty components early on, you can prevent further damage. We will discuss safety precautions to take during neon sign maintenance and repair processes next.
Precautions to Take During Neon Sign Maintenance and Repair
Neon signs look amazing, but are deceptively dangerous. That’s why you have to be careful when maintaining and repairing these signs. Here’s our advice to stay safe while taking care of your neon signs:
Turn Off the Power
Like when you’re working with other appliances, cut the power when you’re dealing with a neon sign. Disconnect the power supply. This will prevent electrical shock and keep the sign safe from additional damage.
Wear Protective Gear
While working on a neon sign, you have to come prepared. Always wear the proper safety equipment to protect yourself. Wear protective gloves and eyewear. Additionally, you should use insulated tools to safeguard against electrical hazards and broken glass.
Don’t Handle Neon Gas Alone
Neon gas powers your sign. However, you shouldn’t handle it yourself. That’s why you should leave gas refills and repairs to the professionals.
Hire a Professional
Lastly, hire a professional technician while working with neon signs. They are trained to work with neon signs specifically. Additionally, when you DIY your repair or maintenance project, you risk paying more for your mistakes.
Neon sign maintenance and repair are far from easy. That’s why you have to be careful. By taking safety precautions, you can prevent a small issue from turning into a larger problem. It will also help you keep that signature glow for even longer.
Keep Your Neon Sign Shining Bright!
Proper neon sign maintenance will ensure your sign remains effective and visually appealing for years. On the other hand, repairs will restore your sign back to its original glory. Having problems with your neon sign? At National Neon Signs, we understand how to solve them. Our technicians will ensure your sign shines for years to come.
Need neon sign maintenance or repair services? Contact us today!
